Te Ao Māramatanga
New Zealand College of Mental Health Nurses inc.
9th International Conference 2026
Ko nga Nehi te pumanawa mo te whānau – Whānau in the Hearts and Minds of Nurses
19–20 November 2026 | The Pā, University of Waikato, Kirikiriroa- Hamilton, Aotearoa NZ
Join us in Kirikiriroa, Hamilton for two inspiring days dedicated to the future of mental health, addiction and disability nursing in Aotearoa.
The Te Ao Māramatanga – NZCMHN 9th International Conference brings together nurses, leaders, researchers, and partners from across the motto for connection, learning, and impactful kōrero.
This years theme, Ko nga Nehi te pumanawa mo te whānau – Whānau in the Hearts and Minds of Nurses, places whānau-centred practice at the heart of every conversation – honouring whaiora, whānau, communities, culture, and identity as essential to wellbeing.
Why Attend?
Be inspired by leading voices
Hear from national and international speakers who will explore emerging practice, whānau‑centred models of care, workforce development, lived experience perspectives, and the evolving landscape of mental health, addiction and disability services.
Grow your practice
Across two days you’ll be able to participate in:
- Dynamic presentations and panel discussions
- Specialist workshops during and prior to the conference
- Sessions highlighting Māori, Pacific, disability, addiction, and whānau‑led insights
- Conversations shaping policy, leadership, and the future of mental health nursing, addiction and disability nursing in Aotearoa
(Programme details will be shared as they are confirmed).
Connect and celebrate
Enjoy opportunities to network and reconnect, including the conference dinner and Fellowship Ceremony honouring excellence in mental health, addiction and disability nursing in Aotearoa
Experience an exceptional venue
The Pā provides an inspiring environment grounded in te ao Māori values—supporting meaningful learning, reflection, and connection.
Who Should Attend?
- Mental health, addiction and disability nurses
- Student nurses
- Nurse practitioners and clinical leaders
- Educators, researchers, and policymakers
- NGO and community-based practitioners
- Anyone committed to advancing whānau‑centred care
Pre‑Conference Workshops
Wednesday 18 November 2026 | University of Waikato
A programme of pre‑conference workshops will be held on Wednesday 18 November 2026, prior to the main conference. These workshops will take place at the University of Waikato, ahead of the conference opening on Thursday 19 November.
Pre‑conference workshops are independently run by individual presenters and offer an opportunity for more in‑depth learning, skill development, and focused discussion in smaller group settings.
Important Information for Attendees
- Pre‑conference workshops are separate from the main conference programme
- Registration, fees, and delivery are managed directly by each workshop presenter
- Places may be limited and may require early booking
Attendees considering participation in a pre‑conference workshop are advised to factor additional travel and accommodation nights into their planning.
Further Details
Information about available workshops, including topics, schedules, costs, and registration links, will be published on the conference website closer to the event.
Call For Abstracts
Abstract Submissions Open – 30 April, 2026
Be Ready to Secure Your Place
Early‑bird registrations are open now! We encourage delegates to organise professional development funding, conference leave, or employer approval early so you can take advantage of the discounted early‑bird rates.
We look forward to welcoming you to Kirikiriroa for an inspiring, future‑focused gathering that strengthens practice, connection, and whānau‑centred mental health nursing. addiction and disability nursing in Aotearoa
Main contact: events@nzcmhn.org.nz